How to help a cat lose weight ?

Obesity in cats is a challenge to most pet owners. It is estimated that at least 6 out of 10 cats in the USA are overweight. This predisposes cats to some serious health risks such as urinary tract disease, arthritis, diabetes, and cardiovascular infections. 

Therefore there is a need for every pet owner to learn how to help your cat to lose weight. Here are ways that you can achieve it.

1. Visit your veterinary

The first thing to do before you choose to change your cats' dietary intake is to take your cat to the veterinarian for a checkup. This is because switching diets can lead to a condition called hepatic lipidosis which can be life-threatening. 

Therefore it is important to go for a consultation so that your vet can help you in the weight loss plan. 

Additionally, the veterinarian will have to do some examination to diagnose the level of obesity and detect any underlying health issues that could be contributing to the weight gain. 

Some of the common health issues that can lead to obesity especially in cats are conditions such as diabetes. 

Once it has been established that your cat has no medical issues then you can now embark on a weight loss plan.

2. Exercise your cat

One of the simplest ways to help your cat lose weight is through exercises. This involves playing with your cat for at least 30 minutes using toys which is ideal in weight loss. You should also try to take your cat for a walk especially when you’re going outdoors. 

You can also introduce scratching or climbing posts to help in metabolic processes that will be very essential in the burning down of calories.

3. Introduce a low-calorie diet

Most pet owners love feeding junk food to their cats which contributes to obesity. Therefore you need to cut calorie intake by eliminating foods that have high calories. 

This can be done with the help of veterinarians who will help you to determine the number of calories that the cat has been taking so that you can come up with a low-calorie diet that will be safe for weight loss. 

This process should be done under the supervision of the veterinary to prevent side effects.

4. Water

Water is very essential in weight loss. Therefore you should add water to your cat’s food because it makes it feel full and hydrated. 

This will prompt them to take less food and eventually your cat will shed some extra weight. If you want more information on this, make sure to check out an old video of mine called, 6 tips to help your cat drink more water.

5. Keep track of weight loss

Measure the weight of your cat regularly to help you take records of its weight which can be essential and helpful in long term weight loss. 

If you notice there is no significant change in the strategies that you have implemented you can consult a veterinarian to help you customize your weight loss plan so that you can have more substantial results.